This is one of my favorite times of year. The leaves are turning, there is heavy frost in the morning and the world all around us is changing to open a new season. However with that change comes threats…and I don’t mean toque hair…I mean cold and flu season is upon us.

I’m glad there are thing we can do to stay healthy during the sickness season as some call it.

Get plenty of sleep. Being well rested is a good way of keeping your body in good working order and ready for any microscopic intruders. Just like regular life irritations, if you are well rested, you can take these on; microscopic intruders are no different.

Get your vitamins. Whether you have an extra orange or you are taking supplemental pills, vitamin C is a must for our Canadian climate. This will boost your immune system and help you take control of the viruses around you.

Living in the prairies of Canada, this tip has come with years and years of scolding from my mother to “dress warm”. Whether you put on a extra sweater, warmer boots or mukluks or get out the scarf toque combo you can be prepared for what mother nature throws at you.

Health Canada estimates 25% of us will get hit with the cold and/or flu this year.

Giveaway Moment:

Valued at over $150 the Shoppers Drug Mart Cold and Flu Defense Kit contains a $50 gift card to use at your local Shoppers Drug Mart, where you can now also get your annual flu shot by walking-in or booking an appointment online at http://shoppersdrugmart.ca/flushot. It also contains essential items you should have on hand including Life Brand Hand Sanitizer, Vapo Rub, Digital Thermometer, Sugar-free cough drops, facial tissue, Vitamins D and C, a Humidifier and Simply Food Chicken Noodle Soup.

Open to Canada, excluding Quebec – Enter to win and kick winter in the butt this year.

Things I do to battle cold & flu season include getting my flu shot, keeping hands washed, stay at home when if I’m not feeling well as I don’t want to pass on a cold/flu to others, take vitamin c, try to get lots of rest, etc.

For me its the power of positive thinking. I tell myself that I dont have time to get sick and I dont! I havent been sick in over two years 😀 However the other members of my family could really use this 🙁

I am entering your giveaway.
It would be great to win the Shoppers Drug Mart Cold and Flu Defense Kit .
In response to your question of What do you do to battle cold & flu season?
I wash my hands often,i keep hand sanitizer close by and drink orange juice.
Thank you for having this great giveaway!!!!!!!

I would LOVE to win this. We’ve been battling strep throat since the end of July. Between our 2 kids we’ve had 7 cases :'( This basket would come in handy and the gift card would be used for advil/tylenol or the antibiotics.

I’m always telling my kids to dress for the weather. It isn’t summer anymore, it’s freezing out so winter is here. Dress for it.

Stay hydrated – always tricky in the winter because it’s so cold but your body needs as many fluids as in the summer – a lot of “soul food” like hot soups and stay dry and warm. Rather have a layer to much than to little!

I always wash my hands after coming home from a shopping trip and many times throughout the day, and when outside keep my hands away from my face. Always have a flu shot, drink lots of orange juice and fruits with vitamin C and always get plenty of rest! Homemade chicken coup with lots of garlic is my go to feel good cure